Editor:
Nine years ago, a number of Rotary clubs in Linn County and the United Way of Linn County
(now includes Benton and Lincoln counties) introduced a program called “The Imagination
Library” to the children and families in our county.
Dolly Parton started this program over 30 years ago as a way to promote the love of reading in young children.
Since its inception in 1995, over 200 million books have been distributed. During the nine years of operation in Linn County, over 25,000 children have benefited from participation in this program. In this year alone, approximately 3,700 children are enrolled in the Imagination Library.
The Imagination Library has been proven to improve early literacy skills in children aged from birth to 5. It also creates a love for reading that benefits the child for the rest of their lives.
The program provides a quality, age-appropriate literature book to registered children once a month until the child enters kindergarten. At the end of each book are questions and activities that promote interaction between parents and their children, thus strongly encouraging parent/child bonding.
The books are free to enrolled families, thanks to donations and support from local businesses
and organizations.
The three Rotary Clubs of Linn County, along with Rotary District 5110, have donated
well over $100,000.
The main organization in charge of the day-to-day operations of the Imagination Library in Linn
County is the United Way of Linn, Benton and Lincoln Counties. Several years ago, the program
was expanded into Benton and Lincoln counties.
The program has been so successful that the state of Oregon is now helping to cover 50% of the program costs.
Early reading success makes a huge difference in a child’s education. Research shows that
kindergarten students participating in the “Imagination Library” program outscore non-
participating students in their early literacy skills. This in turn, helps them become better readers and better prepares them for a successful school experience.
If you or someone you know would like to register a child, please visit the United Way of Linn,
Benton, Lincoln Counties website at www.unitedwaylbl.org. Additional information is also
available at the Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library website, maginationlibrary.com/usa.
Larry Horton
Sweet Home